Navy & Marine Corps Achievement

Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal and Ribbon

History - Established 1961

Established in 1961, the Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal is the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps-specific version of the Achievement Medal. Each branch of the military offers a version of the award, and the United States Department of Defense has also authorized a version of the award to recognize joint activity among more than one branch. The award category was established in order to offer recognition to junior officers and other personnel who do not meet the eligibility criteria for the Meritorious Service Medal or the Commendation Medal.

Originally called the “Secretary of the Navy Commendation for Achievement Medal” and shortened to the “Navy Achievement Medal” in 1967, the Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal took on its current name in 1994.

Details

The medal is in the shape of a square with blunted corners; it features the image of an anchor and a star in each corner. The ribbon is green with a thin vertical orange stripe toward each edge.

Subsequent awards may be indicated by service stars as well as the “V” device or Combat Distinguishing Device as appropriate.

Silver Star

Gold Star

Gold V